‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ This is a question many heard in their younger years. Everyone grows with the hopes of following through with career dreams but somewhere along the way, things do not always go according to plan. Many factors determine the feasibility of nurturing a dream career and living it in adulthood. However, the reality is that only 10% of people admit to working their dream jobs. What influences these decisions, and why do many people fail to stick with the dream? Below is a discussion on some possibilities.
The financial aspect
Undoubtedly, some jobs pay higher than others. Usually, STEM-dominated careers pay more than other subject areas. For many, money is the ultimate deciding factor when choosing a career path. This is a practical way to go about it in many situations, especially when economic indicators like the housing market continue to rise. It is easier for a high-earner to make a large deposit on a house than someone with an average wage.
The very reason some people are in the position to invest more than others is largely due to high-paying jobs. Some people admit to having taken specific career paths because of the level of financial comfort these jobs offer. Therefore, while that profession may not exactly be the dream job, it is what pays the bills and helps them live comfortable lives.
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Growing and changing trends
Through digitization and digitalization, traditional careers are changing. Even better, the younger generation is moving with the trend. For example, the medical world is heavily influenced by technology, making room for new careers like Nuclear Medicine technologists, Cardiovascular Technicians, and so on. In the law profession, these trends are spurred by growing interest in cyber law, forensics, and changing population dynamics.
This is what continues to fuel discussions among law firms such as Wegman Partners. Fortunately, growing and changing trends in the career world can be viewed in a positive light. It allows people to see under-served topical areas that need increased expertise. The world is changing, and it makes sense for career choices to undergo that transformation. So, if that influences your choice, it might be the way to go.
Parental influence
A Forbes report on parental influence on career choices stated that it is more common than people realize. Undoubtedly, parents want the best for their children, but sometimes, that guidance becomes a bit dominating. A Joblist study also indicated that Millennials, Gen X, and Z populations experience this the most. The study attributed this to rapid technological advancement and how parents want their growing kids to mold into the global transformation.
Another study on this topic discovered that 65% of millennials currently work jobs their parents thought would be ideal and offer comfort. However, upon further probing, these interviewed millennials admitted they would rather be engaged in work that aligned more with their passions. Many also felt that doing so would disappoint their parents and prefer to stay in influenced career choices to please their families. While this is problematic, it only paints a picture of what goes into helping young adults choose their careers.
